On 16 September 1991, Saint Etienne released their debut studio album “Foxbase Alpha” featuring singles "Only Love Can Break Your Heart" "Kiss and Make Up" and "Nothing Can Stop Us".
The album was recorded in a style which drew on the club culture and house music of the time, but also incorporates the group's characteristic love of 1960s pop, with tracks also bridged by samples from films or by short songs.
Foxbase Alpha was on the short list of nominees for the 1992 Mercury Prize. It was accompanied by several successful singles, including "Nothing Can Stop Us". The album was also included in the book 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die.